Incident Overview
A private certificated pilot was taxiing for takeoff in a light, single-engine airplane when he observed a four-engine military C-130 turboprop airplane performing an engine run-up approximately 300 feet to the left of the taxiway. The pilot reported stopping short and contacting Nashville Ground control on frequency 121.9, requesting further taxi instructions because the C-130 was running engines with exhaust blast directed toward him. The controller responded, "...proceed your discretion." The pilot then continued taxiing behind the C-130, and his airplane was struck by the propwash, causing it to be blown sideways and overturn.
Pilot Actions
According to the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1) submitted by the pilot, he stopped the airplane and radioed the controller with his concern about the C-130's engine blast. After receiving the controller's instruction to proceed at his discretion, the pilot chose to continue taxiing behind the C-130.
Advisory Circular Reference
Paragraph 11, Jet Engine Exhaust, of the FAA's Advisory Circular AC 90-23F Aircraft Wake Turbulence notes that light aircraft need to maintain adequate separation from jet engine blast during ground operations.